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Within the mountains, lakes and waterfalls of the Poconos, you can find a vacation that will meet the needs of just about anyone. The ability to ski in the winter and explore hiking trails in warmer months make this region a year-round destination, located just outside of New York City. The Pocono Mountains can be the place to escape, whether you want your vacation to be a kayaking adventure, romance in heart-shaped tubs, quality family time or a look into the area's coal mining history.

Adventurous

If you are the type that doesn’t like sitting still during your vacation, a trip to the Poconos can fulfill your needs with an array of land and water sports. In the summer, there are activities like boating and hiking; the winter brings lots of snow for things like skiing, snowboarding and sledding. The Skytop Lodge actually has an Adventure Center, where you can climb a rock wall or learn skills such as how to kayak, navigate the hotel’s 14 trails or cross country ski.

Romantic

At one time, the Poconos was called honeymoon haven, as it was full of resorts that had heart-shaped tubs and mirrored ceilings. According to Gillian Moore of the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, the only hotel left in the area that still offers those options is Cove Haven, but there are still other romantic choices. The French Manor Inn is a secluded chateau, set up like an intimate bed and breakfast, offering in-room fireplaces with spectacular mountain views. The Lodge at Woodloch is another option with luxury suites and romantic sunsets near the waterfall.

Family

In addition to the Skytop Lodge, which offers family packages that include the adventurous activities at the resort, families can have fun in the indoor water park of the Great Wolf Lodge, where rooms, meals and fun are geared toward families. For your best vacation in the Poconos, Fernwood Hotel & Resort is another choice for families with winter fun like snowtubing, bumper boats during warmer weather and a Game Zone to keep everyone happy indoors during inclement weather. Fernwood also offers villas, if your family needs more space.

Historical

The Pocono Mountains are not just a place for activity; it’s a region full of history. If you are looking to take a trip back in time, the Inn at Jim Thorpe is the place to do it. This hotel was built in 1849 and is centered in the historic district. The rooms cross the old and the new with Wi-Fi and spa services, while the 45 rooms maintain the look and feel of an old inn. Keep alert, though, as there have been reports that the Jim Thorpe Inn may be haunted.

Considerations

Within the Pocono Mountains, there are five regions. When considering what will be your best Poconos vacation, look into the region you are going to in addition to the hotel. For example, the Upper Delaware River is the place for the adventurous, with its rustic camping sites and wild river courses. The Mountain Region is a good choice for skiing and hiking. The Lake Region is full over not just lakes, but also rivers and creeks. The Lehigh region is where you will find Lehigh Gorge State Park, over 4,500 acres of trails and waterfalls. The Delaware River area is perfect for scenic drives.

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About the Author

Marcia Frost is a writer covering travel, food, wine/spirits, and health. She writes for many on and offline publications, including The Daily Meal, Girls Getaway, Travelhoppers, and Princess Cruises.She also has a popular blog, Wine And SpiritsTravel. She has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Long Island University.

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